'Eyes of Silver, Eyes of Gold' by Ellen O'Connell is a captivating western romance set in the Wild West times, focusing on the struggles and evolution of the main characters, Cord and Anne. The plot revolves around their unlikely love story born out of trauma, prejudice, and challenging circumstances in 1880's Colorado. The author's writing style vividly captures the daily minutiae of their lives, portraying realistic descriptions of raw emotions, feelings, and actions, making the story feel more authentic and precious. Despite facing racism, family dynamics, and societal prejudices, Cord and Anne navigate their marriage with mutual respect, partnership, and love, building a life together from the ashes of their past traumas.

Characters:

The characters are well-developed, with Anne depicted as strong and determined, while Cord is portrayed as quiet and complex, showcasing significant character growth.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style features descriptive imagery and strong character development, blending old school and contemporary prose techniques.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot is emotional and revolves around a forced marriage that stems from distressing circumstances, highlighting the growth of the characters' relationship amidst adversity.

Setting:

The setting takes place in the 1880s in Colorado, specifically within a rural ranching environment, incorporating elements of frontier life.

Pacing:

The pacing begins slowly to establish character backstories but accelerates as the relationship develops, creating a balance between action and quieter domestic moments.

DAMP AND SHIVERING, ANNE fought against waking, tried to shut out the sounds of nickering horses, lowing cows, and plaintive cats. As she curled in a tighter ball, stalks of hay pricked her cheek, and...

Notes:

The story is set in 1880s Colorado and involves themes of racism and familial abuse.

The heroine, Anne Wells, escapes an abusive father who tries to force her into an arranged marriage.

Anne ends up in the barn of Cord Bennett, a half-Native American man who is an outcast in his town.

Their marriage is forced at gunpoint after both are beaten by Anne's father and his henchmen.

Despite their traumatic beginning, the couple gradually develops a deep and supportive relationship.

The author, Ellen O'Connell, incorporates many details of rural life, making the setting feel authentic to those familiar with farm life.

Anne is portrayed as a strong character who fiercely protects Cord against prejudice and violence from their families.

Cord is initially a quiet and reserved character, struggling with his own internalized racism and belief that he is unworthy of Anne's love.

The romance evolves over time, showcasing both characters' growth as they learn to trust and care for each other.

Eyes of Silver, Eyes of Gold is praised for its heartfelt and emotional narrative, with many readers citing it as a favorite in the historical romance genre.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include graphic violence, domestic abuse, racism, and potential sexual assault.

Has Romance?

The romance is a central theme with a significant focus on the emotional and physical connection between the main characters.

implied steam level

From The Publisher:

Eyes of Silver, Eyes of Gold is a story of family conflicts set in Colorado in 1885. Anne Wells has embarrassed her rigidly proper family since she was a child with occasional but grievous lapses from ladylike behavior. They blame those lapses for the disgraceful fact that she is a spinster at 28. Cord Bennett, the son of his father's second marriage to a Cheyenne woman, is more than an embarrassment to his well-to-do family of ranchers and lawyers - they are ashamed and afraid of their black sheep. When Anne and Cord are found alone together, her father's fury leads to violence. Cord's family is more than willing to believe that the fault is his. Can Anne and Cord use the freedom of being condemned for sins they didn't commit to make a life together? Or will their disapproving, interfering families tear them apart?

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Ratings (23)

Incredible (10)
Loved It (8)
Liked It (3)
It Was OK (2)

Reader Stats (50):

Read It (23)
Want To Read (18)
Did Not Finish (1)
Not Interested (8)

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